Brighton & Hove Albion and Juventus inclusion in the race for Lazar Samardžić has made it complicated for Napoli to take him away from Udinese in the winter market.
Three days ago, TuttoMercatoWeb reported the Seagulls have the economic power to burn competition from the two Italian clubs. Udinese director Federico Balzaretti has since revealed an approach from the Premier League for the 21-year-old.
According to Spazio Napoli, Brighton and the Old Lady have taken further steps to try and sign the midfielder this month.
The Germany-born Serbia international is top of the Serie A winners’ target list and they have started discussions with Udinese. The report adds the negotiations have slowed because of Roberto De Zerbi’s side and the Turin club.
It’s said both Brighton and Juventus have moved for the player, by ‘closing an agreement’ with his entourage.
Calciomercato state the negotiations between Napoli and Udinese are on standby, which has allowed the Old Lady to make a move. The latter want to block the deal, so that he can arrive at the club next summer. This, however, isn’t easy.
The outlet doesn’t mention Brighton’s interest in Samardžić, who is valued at €25m. If the Premier League side were to pay this fee, they could get ahead of Juventus and sign him in January.
Samardžić has managed two goals and registered two assists from 18 games this season.
